DTEK, the largest private investor in Ukraine's energy sector, has received an 11 million euro grant from the French government to build Ukraine's first digital substation. The project, which will use GE Vernova technologies, will cost 15 million euros, funded by the French government grant of 11 million euros and DTEK's own investment of 4 million euros.
The approval of the project signifies the deepening of relations between France and Ukraine and underscores strong international support for strengthening Ukraine's energy resilience and security.
DTEK's CEO, Maksym Timchenko, stated:
"We are extremely grateful to France for this generous support. Thanks to this grant, we are taking another step in rebuilding Ukraine's decentralized energy system. Modern digital networks are the foundation for increasing resilience, improving efficiency, and ensuring stable energy supply both now and in the future. This digital substation is more than an infrastructure project; it will be the cornerstone of economic recovery, energy independence, and strengthening ties between Ukraine and France. We also thank GE Vernova for the strategic partnership and look forward to the results of our collaboration."
Pierre Elbrun, special envoy of the President of France for economic assistance and Ukraine's recovery, described the project as a significant step in Ukraine-France cooperation in the energy sector: "France is committed to supporting Ukraine's recovery not only through rebuilding infrastructure but also by supplying modern equipment, engineering solutions, and operational services that bring the country closer to EU standards. Specifically, France supports the partnership between GE Vernova and DTEK within this landmark project, which will enhance Ukraine's energy system's resilience today and pave the way for future large-scale transformations."
Philippe Piron, CEO of GE Vernova’s electrification systems division, added:
"GE Vernova is proud to continue supporting Ukraine in restoring energy infrastructure and modernizing networks. This digital substation is part of the future where the energy system will become more resilient. We aim to provide cutting-edge solutions that ensure stable, efficient, and sustainable energy supply for the people of Ukraine."
The construction of the digital substation is part of 19 key energy infrastructure projects approved this month in Paris within the 200 million euro Fund for Ukraine – an agreement between the governments of Ukraine and France aimed at restoring critical infrastructure, including the energy sector.
DTEK Networks, responsible for the project, will collaborate with GE Vernova Grid Solutions SAS. GE Vernova will provide advanced digital energy equipment and technologies, enabling remote monitoring and real-time diagnostics of the network. This will significantly enhance the reliability of energy supply and reduce electricity losses.
Preparatory work for the construction of the substation has already started, and full-scale construction will begin in the third quarter of 2025. Once operational, the substation will provide stable and efficient electricity to over 65,000 households and businesses in one of Ukraine's regions affected by the war. For security reasons, the exact location is not disclosed.
- A grant of 11 million euros from the French government for the construction of a digital substation
- The project cost is 15 million euros (11 million euros in grant and 4 million euros in DTEK's own investment)
- DTEK and GE Vernova will begin construction in the third quarter of 2025
- The new substation will provide electricity to more than 65,000 households and businesses
